Deputy Speaker Kalu advocates increased funding for justice and social welfare institutions

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has emphasized the urgent need for greater funding of critical justice and social welfare institutions. He believes that insufficient funding hampers their ability to effectively fulfill their mandates, ultimately compromising the welfare of many citizens, especially the vulnerable ones in society.

These statements were made during a meeting held in his office with a delegation from the United Nations Development Programme and the European Union, focusing on the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme Phase Two.

In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, the Deputy Speaker emphasized the importance of adequate funding for institutions responsible for upholding the rule of law and ensuring the well-being of citizens.

Kalu commended the RoLAC Programme’s commitment to securing appropriate funding for these institutions and improving access to rights and justice for women, children, and vulnerable individuals in Nigeria.

He pointed to rights-based legislations enacted by the National Assembly, such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, and the Discrimination Against Persons Prohibition Act. These legislations were established to ensure justice, equality, and the protection of the most vulnerable members of society.

Kalu expressed his eagerness to provide support in two critical areas: oversight for the implementation of rights-based legislation and budgetary decision-making to adequately fund critical justice and social welfare institutions.

He stressed that it is one thing to have these laws on paper and another to ensure their effective implementation. Kalu highlighted the importance of ensuring that all citizens have equal access to justice and are protected from discrimination and violence, particularly emphasizing the significance of protecting women and vulnerable individuals.

In the realm of budgetary decision-making, he stated that adequate funding is crucial for institutions responsible for upholding the rule of law and ensuring citizens’ welfare. Inadequate funding can impede their ability to carry out their mandates effectively, causing delays in the justice system and compromising the welfare of vulnerable citizens.

The RoLAC Programme seeks to partner with lawmakers to prioritize the funding of these institutions, ensuring they have the resources necessary to fulfill their roles in society. Kalu recognized the opportunity to make a lasting impact through strategic collaboration, leading to a more just and equitable society where the rights of all citizens are upheld, and justice is accessible to everyone.

The Gender and Human Rights Lead of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Onyinye Ndubuisi, suggested starting the collaboration with a legislative summit to review policy documents related to women and girls in Nigeria. The goal is to eradicate violence against women and girls and ensure they can live without fear.